Diploma in Personal Training – Level 3

This qualification will further develop learners who have existing knowledge and skills in gym instruction to enable them to pursue a career in personal training.

During the qualification, students will further their knowledge of anatomy and physiology, nutrition and lifestyle factors that affect wellbeing. They will develop their communication skills and motivational practice to support change, planning and conducting physical activity sessions with different types of clients in a variety of environments with a range of resources.

They will also gain an understanding of the legal and professional requirements for personal training, plus how to set up and manage a personal training business on a self-employed basis if they so wish.

Applicants must have completed a Level 2 Diploma in Gym Instruction and be able to evidence this prior to enrolment.

All applicants must have completed a Level 2 Diploma in Gym Instruction (or similar qualification) and should be able to evidence this achievement prior to starting the course.

Students must also have achieved GCSE English or Maths at grade 4 or higher.

Candidates must show a positive approach to delivering exercise classes and physical activity sessions, while also being highly motivated to take part in physical activity sessions and training.

Links to gyms or leisure centres are recommended in order to confirm your work experience placements.

Internal applicants must evidence high levels of prior attendance and positive references alongside the completion of the Level 2 Diploma in Gym Instruction and associated qualifications.

There are six mandatory units:

• Applied anatomy and physiology for exercise, health and fitness
• The principles of nutrition and their application to exercise and health
• Understanding lifestyle, health, wellbeing and common medical conditions
• Encouraging positive health and fitness behaviours in clients
• Programme design and delivery for personal training
• Professionalism and business acumen for personal trainers

Your study programme will also include a tutorial, enrichment, work experience totalling 72 hours, English or maths if needed and a range of additional qualifications such as First Aid, Safeguarding, Smoking Cessation, Exercise for Older Adults, Leading PA for Adolescents, Mental Health Awareness and Group Training.

This course will be delivered on-site at Broomfield Hall. The course is highly practical and you will be expected to both lead and take part in activity sessions.

You will need to have a uniform that is worn every day and when you are on work experience. The minimum expectation for the uniform is that you wear a plain black T-shirt or polo shirt and sweatshirt etc. DCG-branded uniform packs can be purchased for around £50.

All learners are advised to have a tablet or laptop to aid them with their studies.

There may be additional costs incurred for selected trips or visits.

Overseas work placements are available.

Although you do not need to be a member of a gym, it is expected that you will exercise and be physically active to role-model the expected behaviours of the career pathway you have opted to take.

To achieve this qualification, the learner is required to complete a number of different assessments, including:

• A case study working with a real client to enable the learner to complete an initial consultation, a food diary analysis, an educational activity for the client and a periodised programme including commentary/rationales and individual session plans

• Assignments – designing an infographic and educational information handout, recommending the use of technology to clients, and developing a new personal training business, including an initial business evaluation, market research and business planning

• Practical observations – consultations, training techniques and personal training

• Self-evaluation and reflective practice

Further study

You may consider applying for the:

• Level 3 Diploma in Sports Massage Therapy
• Level 4 Advanced Personal Trainer qualification

Careers

Alternatively you may wish to seek employment as a personal trainer or fitness professional.

For more information, contact Derby College Group on 0800 0280289 or enquiries@derby-college.ac.uk or tweet us @Derbycolsport